What is a Family?

Families have always been diverse, but today we see more families who have experienced divorce and remarriage. Families come in all shapes and sizes. It doesn’t mean that we have to have a mom and a dad in the same house.  Don’t think that you don’t have a family anymore if you aren’t married any more.

A family is where children learn how to grow up.  A family is supportive to children emotionally, spiritually, as well as financially. All families will have strengths and weaknesses.  You can build a successful single parent family if you are able to recognize your own families’ strengths and weaknesses.

Research shows that successful single parent families exemplify the following characteristics:

· Single parents are able to recognize the challenges that they will face by themselves

· Parenting is a first priority for single parents

· There is consistent and fair discipline

· Parents encourage open communication of feelings and thoughts.

· Single parents can recognize the need to take care of themselves as well as the children.

· Single parents maintain some traditions that were started when father and mother were married

· Single parents can learn to manage time effectively.

There are many ways in which family member can build strong bonds with one another by doing simple, everyday activities like preparing meals, reading, riding bikes, cleaning up, and exercising.

Successful single parent families also seem to have a good sense of spirituality.  They all believe in the same thing and focus on common values.  If you haven’t invested much time in religion, this may be something you would want to start in what ever way you feel comfortable.

It is not only possible, but also likely that your family will be a success if you can do the majority of things that are discussed above.  Just remember, there is no one-way to be a family.  They come in all shapes and sizes.

 

Len :: Mar.14.2008 :: Caring for your Children, General ::

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